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V-Mart could return to catching this weekend

V-Mart could return to catching this weekend

8/11/13: Victor Martinez blasts a solo shot to deep right off Mariano Rivera to tie the game at 4 in the top of the ninth inning

By Jason Beck and Bobby Nightengale
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MLB.com |

DETROIT -- Before Wednesday's game against the Twins, Victor Martinez was sitting behind home plate in his catcher's gear, practicing his throws to second base. He hasn't played the position since 2011, but may get an opportunity this weekend against the Mets.

"I'm contemplating -- contemplating only -- catching him a game in New York," manager Jim Leyland said.

Detroit will head to Citi Field to face the Mets beginning on Friday, and the Tigers won't have the luxury of a designated hitter, because they will be playing in a National League park. Instead of being relegated to a pinch-hitting role, Martinez could find some playing time at catcher.

Martinez says he always prepares to play the position in case of emergencies and would be happy to be back there this weekend.

"That's the position I came up to the big leagues in," Martinez said. "I still enjoy it. Unfortunately, I can't do it like I used to do it everyday, but it's always going to be fun."